Greek Super League delayed at least two weeks over fears of violence

Greece's sports minister has postponed the start of top-tier league matches for more than two weeks because of fears of violence.

The Greek championship had been due to start on Saturday but Stavros Kontonis said it would be delayed until "at least" Sept. 5.

In a statement on Thursday, Kontonis said that police officials suggested the postponement, arguing that a festering squabble involving the Greek football federation, league organisers and clubs posed serious security concerns if matches went ahead.

Kontonis said there were fears that "the slightest excuse might trigger extensive violence" between fans.

Several clubs had threatened to abstain from league games amid a dispute over how referees are chosen.